Wedding Guests – user's Blog!

July 27, 2018

Outfits for Every Bridesmaid Event On Your Summer Schedule

Being a bridesmaid requires plenty of outfit changes. From the rehearsal dinner to the bachelorette party, the events a bridesmaid must attend run the gamut. Here, we’ve pulled together six super easy summertime looks to get you through the celebrations in style.

The Celebratory Brunch

Madewell Wide-Leg Cropped Jeans in Finney Wash

The funky wooden sole of leather mules adds a festive touch to a cute combination of crop top and these wide-leg jeans. The resulting look is simple yet trendy enough to make a statement.

Madewell Wide-Leg Cropped Jeans in Finney Wash
from Madewell

The Outdoor Photo-Op Adventure

Ralph Lauren Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt

Espadrilles give a seemingly basic combo of shorts and a tee a fun update, and the linen shorts can do double duty at your next workout.

Ralph Lauren Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt
from Ralph Lauren

The Bridal Shower

See by Chloe Tie Dress

Tie-strap detailing adds a fun touch to this basic little black dress. Complete the look with crossover sandals that are both comfortable and cool.

See by Chloe Tie Dress
from Azalea Boutique

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The Bachelorette Party

Charlotte Russe Stripe Cut-Out Tube Dress

Wear this strapless bodycon dress with lucite heels for a fun night out.

Charlotte Russe Stripe Cut-Out Tube Dress
from Charlotte Russe

The Wedding Rehearsal

Aqua Floral-Print Gauze High/Low Dress

A flirty hemline keeps this look fresh. combine it with Dolce Vita espadrille platforms to add a touch of French-girl cool to the ensemble.

Aqua Floral-Print Gauze High/Low Dress
from Bloomingdale’s

The Rehearsal Dinner

BHLDN Diana Dress

This pretty tie-back dress is an effortless pick for the rehearsal dinner. Pair it with gold metallic strappy sandals to add a pop of glam.

BHLDN Diana Dress
from BHLDN

July 10, 2018

How to Build a Bachelor or Bachelorette Party Survival Kit From Scratch

If you have a bachelor party or bachelorette party coming up, you’re probably wondering what to gift the groom- or bride-to-be. Sure, you could go with cash or a gift card. Or you could get creative and win the day by giving a bachelor or bachelorette survival kit. If you’ve never heard of the concept, it’s essentially a basket full of all the items one would need to make it through a night out and the day after. I’ve put together my top picks for what to include in a kit. If you shop for them with Ebates, you’ll get Cash Back on all the best products.

Cocktail Kit to Take the Edge Off

Sometimes, the best remedy after a night at the bar is a little hair of the dog. This cocktail kit will ensure your friend is prepared to put together a pick-me-up the day after. There are multiple cocktail options to choose from, so go with your friend’s favorite.

Cocktail Kits 2 Go
from Jet.com

Advil for That Pounding Headache

Cure their pounding headache with a little over-the-counter love. Bonus points if you include some Alka-Seltzer as well.

Advil PM Caplets
from Rakuten

Nalgene Filled With a Sports Drink

If you want to do a bachelor party or bachelorette party right, the most important thing is proper hydration. A Nalgene bottle filled with your friend’s favorite sports drink — or even plain old water — will do the trick. That way, when you roll into the hotel at 4 a.m. you’ll have a mini hydration station at the ready.

Nalgene 32-Ounce Wide-Mouth Cadet
from Overstock

Hand Sanitizer for a Germ-Free Night

Simple and effective. No frills here. Bars and clubs are notoriously dirty, so your friend will thank you every time they bust out this germ-fighting lifesaver.

Freshwater Mist Hand Sanitizer
from Ulta Beauty

Candy to Cure Late-Night Sugar Cravings

You can never go wrong with candy. You know your friend best, so get them a few bags of their favorite for a pregame snack or late-night fix. My pick? Ghirardelli anything. I’m loving these dark-chocolate sea-salt caramels right now.

Dark-Chocolate Sea-Salt Caramel Squares Gift Bag
from Ghiradelli Chocolates

Cash for Wherever the Night Takes Them

Most people pay for everything with a credit card, so a wad of cash will be a welcome sight in this survival basket. The future bride or groom has a long night ahead full of unexpected adventures. It’s always smart to have some paper on hand for cover fees at the bar, impromptu cab rides or a tip for the pizza guy on his last delivery of the night.

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5-Hour Energy to Keep the Party Going

One of these before a long night out will give the future bride or groom the energy they need to make the most of the celebration. Most people get only one bachelor party or bachelorette party — being awake to experience all of it is a major plus.

5-Hour Energy Energy Shot, Orange
from Walgreens

A Mini First-Aid Kit for Mishaps

Injuries are expected when you mix alcohol and a big group of friends, so you need to have a mini first-aid kit on hand. This one from UST has all the basics to cover cuts, scrapes, splinters and other minor mishaps.

Featherlite First Aid Kit

from The Container Store

A Tide Pen to Tackle Stains

I can’t count the number of times I’ve been saved by a Tide pen. This little stick of magic will get your friend out of a bind when they drop nacho cheese on their new shirt at 3 a.m. All they need to do is shake, open and apply liberally to the stain.

Tide To Go Instant Stain Remover
from Office Depot

Pepto to Keep Them Comfortable

No bachelor or bachelorette kit would be complete without a bottle of Pepto. It’ll take care of upset stomachs and put an end to any unpleasantness caused by the greasy food and drinks from the night’s festivities.

Pepto-Bismol Original 8-Ounce Liquid

from Harmond Discount

A Basket or Container to Put It All In

Now that you’ve amassed an impressive collection of items to give your bachelor or bachelorette, it’s time to put them all together. What better way to showcase your gift-curation skills than this hyacinth-leaf basket from Bed Bath & Beyond. It has an iron frame to support as many goodies as you can fit in it. The lucky bachelor or bachelorette can also use it for other things long after the party is over.

Honey-Can-Do Large Woven Hyacinth Square Basket
from Bed Bath & Beyond

February 2, 2018

Beautiful Bridesmaid Dresses on a Budget

Being part of a wedding party is an exciting honor, but it’s also an expensive one. With shower gifts, bachelorette festivities and everything in between, accepting a role as a bridesmaid is also accepting a big hit to your wallet. One thing that doesn’t have to be pricey: the bridesmaid dresses. There are so many options that are simple, stylish and, yes, affordable. Whether you’re the bride picking out matching frocks for your besties or a maid of honor gently advocating for more affordable bridesmaid dresses, check out these fabulous and frugal finds.

Scarlett Sleeveless Empire-Waist Dress

Lace cap sleeves, a sweetheart neckline and an empire waist make this dreamy little dress a classic and super-flattering choice. And at $90, bridesmaids can wear it once and then ditch or donate without guilt.

Scarlett Sleeveless Empire-Waist Dress

from JCPenney

Melrose Sleeveless Embellished Fit-and-Flare Dress

Since this dress is available in multiple soft hues, bridesmaids can mix or match down the aisle for just $65 a person. The crisscross embellished top slims, while the mid-length flare skirt flows beautifully on all body types.

Melrose Sleeveless Embellished Fit-and-Flare Dress
from JCPenney

Tricks of the Trade Maxi Dress

Look like a Grecian goddess walking down the aisle in this versatile and stunning number. At only $80, it’s like getting four dresses for the price of one, since it can be wrapped and worn multiple ways (as a one-shoulder, cross-front, strapless or halter style). The jersey knit hugs and flatters curves, and, better yet, each bridesmaid can choose which configuration suits her body best.

Tricks of the Trade Maxi Dress

from Lulu’s

Falling for You Maxi Dress

A stunning rusty-rose color and sheer straps that overlay a strapless sweetheart bodice make this cascading gown a dress to remember — at a bargain price of $91.

Falling for You Maxi Dress

from Lulu’s

Flare Dress With Pockets

Navy is a classic choice for bridesmaid dresses, and this retro-inspired number is a reserved but playful (can you say “pockets”?) choice. The bateau neckline and gathered high waist exude ceremony-worthy sophistication, while the flare bottom screams party time! Best of all, you can justify the sensible $119 price tag, since this re-wearable frock will never go out of style.

Flare Dress With Pockets

from ModCloth
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Faux-Wrap Midi Dress

Easily dressed up for the big day or toned down for work, this bright midi dress is equal parts fun and practical — and for $58, it’s a steal you can wear again and again. Plus, the faux-wrap style cinches waistlines for a more flattering fit.

Faux-Wrap Midi Dress

from Kohl’s

Sequin Lace Gown

This elegant gown features an intricately embroidered lace bodice with sequin accents and a sheer illusion neckline and back. The vibrantly deep eggplant purple is not for the wallflower bridesmaid, but at just over $100 it’s a lot of dress for not a lot of money.

Sequin Lace Gown

from Bluefly

Sweetheart Lace Skater Dress

Discount bridesmaid dresses don’t have to be frumpy or unflattering. Available in blush, navy and burgundy hues, this adorable crochet skater dress is simultaneously sweet and sexy, flirty and fun — all for less than $50.

Sweetheart Lace Skater Dress

from Charlotte Russe

April 27, 2017

Wedding Guest Do’s and Don’ts

Wedding season is here. It’s time to prepare for weekends full of dancing, socializing and celebrating happy couples. Wedding guests have a responsibility to help make the day go as smoothly as possible for themselves and everyone else. That means making sure they do come prepared and don’t bug the couple or immediate family too much. Here are some critical do’s and don’ts for this season’s wedding fetes.

Do RSVP

Months of preparation go into planning a wedding, which means every single guest is accounted for. It can be a drag and a time-suck to have to track down every guest who hasn’t sent back the RSVP card. Save the couple a few hours of logistical work and RSVP on time — whether you’re sending a card in the mail or checking a box on a wedding website. They will appreciate it immensely!

Do prepare for any weather

How many times have you been caught unprepared for rain when the weather has been nothing but sun for weeks? Or how many times have you gotten a sunburn on half your face from sitting in the same place during the hottest part of the day? Stock up on facial sunscreen, grab a wedding-worthy sun hat and pack a picture-perfect umbrella in case the weather doesn’t go your way.

Do bring dancing shoes

Your shoes are adorable — truly the perfect complement to your carefree, summer wedding-guest dress. But weddings are long, and you don’t want to have to sit for the entire reception. Instead, you may consider ditching the stilettos after a couple of hours for some flats or flip-flops. And who says comfort has to compromise cuteness? Try these rose gold flip-flops from Havaianas to slip out of blistering heels and into an effortless night of fun. You might even make it to the after party.

Don’t text the bride or groom

Can’t find your way from the ceremony to the reception? Don’t know what time the post-wedding brunch is on Sunday? Don’t ask the busy, overwhelmed bride or groom. It may be tempting since they’re just a simple text away, but it’s not fair to burden them if you haven’t taken the time to visit their website. Plus, it may not be the most effective way to get a response.

Do book a room ahead

Unless you want to cramp someone’s style by ordering up a cot after you realize you don’t have a room for the night, book ahead. It’s the first rule for not being stranded after a long night of fun and cocktails. It sounds basic, but it happens. Find great deals at Hotels.com or Expedia.

Do buy a gift

It doesn’t have to be much, but a gift is a gesture of thanks for the wedding festivities (which surely cost the couple a pretty penny). It’s also a nice way to wish them all the best in their new marriage. If nothing else, a card from Greeting Card Universe will do. They have a huge number of congratulations cards for newlyweds, including a large selection for same-sex couples. And if you are attending more than one wedding this summer, buy in bulk to save on shipping.

Don’t criticize

There’s nothing more disheartening than a guest telling the newlyweds they weren’t a fan of the food or thought the ceremony was too long. If you have opinions — which is bound to happen for those of us who attend multiple weddings every summer — keep them to yourself or to those closest to you. Don’t let any negativity inadvertently dampen an otherwise wonderful day for the couple.

Do relax and have fun

The newlyweds and their families have gone out of their way to make the wedding as welcoming and fun for guests as possible. Forget what’s happening at work, the traffic you fought to get there and the price of the hotel room you booked for the weekend. While you’re there, do your best to enjoy the celebratory atmosphere and the food, and soak in the love from the happy couple — knowing you’re part of the inner circle!

February 24, 2017

9 Dresses to Wear to a Spring Wedding

First comes Valentine’s Day, then comes spring wedding season. Thankfully, with Ebates you can afford to stock up on a supply of sweet looks that will keep you outfitted for every party. Here, nine of our favorites.

Flower Power

This long maxi number is a bohemian way to play fancy. Pull your hair back for a dose of elegance.

Beads, Please

This 1920s-inspired dress works well for more formal fetes. Work a red lip to maximize the statement.

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Red Hot

For destination weddings, show off a tan with this cherry-red dress. Keep it simple with neutral makeup and sandals.

Stripe Now

We love this vibrant dress to take you all the way through summer parties too. Try it with simple gold jewelry.

Cold Shoulder

A little black dress gets the special treatment with this off-the-shoulder stunner. Try a colored heel to add a pop of intrigue.

Ladylike Luxe

This elegant little blue dress looks both pretty and polished. Try it with a fun nude heel.

Pretty in Pink

Don’t underestimate the power of pink. This dress looks smart paired with a stacked platform heel for a retro vibe.

The Pleat Life

Pleats and print give this look its character. Wear it with a swinging ponytail for a quirky kick to the classics.

Embroidered Elegance

This hippie-goes-dressy dress will make a statement at destination or outdoor weddings. Keep it simple with a flat sandal to tone down the length.

August 4, 2016

Planning a Bachelor Party that Won’t Break the Bank

If Hollywood were to be believed, nearly every soon-to-be groom would find their bachelor party to be a smorgasbord of expensive and often risque indulgences. But not to worry if you and your groomsmen have a bank balance with fewer digits than these fictional bachelors of lore. All you really need to host a killer bachelor party is good friends and a little creativity. Ebates makes it easy to snag some thrifty deals on party essentials. Using Ebates Cash Back and exclusive promo codes, you can be sure you and your groomsmen will have a guys’ night out that is truly legendary, without breaking the bank. Read on for some awesome and budget-friendly bachelor party ideas.

Go Camping

So you want to get away, spend a weekend with the boys and have a carefree adventure. If your budget can’t quite carry the weight of a five-person flight to Las Vegas, there’s no reason you can’t still have a truly stellar getaway. You and the guys have always talked about trekking out to that cool campsite a few miles outside of town, hunkering down and enjoying the wide open air, free to do as you please without the constraints of civilization. Backcountry.com has some sweet deals if you need to snag a few outdoor essentials before heading out. Pack some brews and some hot dogs and head out for an inexpensive mini-vacation that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on your wedding day and the adventure that is life as a newlywed.

Guys’ Night In

What better location to celebrate one last night of bachelorhood than the old bachelor pad? Order some pizzas and pick up some 12-packs. Have the groomsmen pitch in for a couple of bottles of middle-shelf liquor and some mixers, or designate each of the guys to bring a snack or beverage to share. Chill out with some Netflix or DVDs, or fire up the Playstation and enjoy a few rounds of your favorite games. Chill out, reminisce, and say goodbye to the digs of singledom in a way befitting of all the awesome times you’ve shared there.

Karaoke

Karaoke and parties go together like rum and coke. And speaking of the latter, libations are best served plentifully if you go this route, especially if the groom is a bit more reserved. Help him let loose by getting him just short of smashed with some pre-game drinks before hailing an Uber to the nearest karaoke bar. Not only is it a ton of fun, it usually makes for some funny memories all of you can reflect on fondly and laugh about for years to come. Bonus points if you snag a video of the groom belting out some ‘80s hair metal.

Barbecue

This option is one of the cheapest and simplest. All you need is a backyard and a grill. Blast some tunes, fill up the cooler with some ice cold brews, and show off your skills as a grillmaster by cooking up some delicious eats and an equally good time. Pick up some dogs, burgers, and buns at the local Safeway and lay out an assortment of self-serve condiments for a casual celebration. Set up some backyard badminton or volleyball for a little extra fun.

Game Night

So you and your guys don’t quite have enough extra dough laying around to risk blowing a few hundred in a serious high-stakes poker game. That doesn’t mean you can’t replicate the experience on a more wallet-friendly level. Head to the casino and play some penny slots — they’re not just fun for old-timers — or set up your own table at a groomsman’s place. You can go with a classic like poker or pick a few of the groom’s favorite card or board games. Order some deliciously greasy takeout, procure some cigars, and serve up some whiskey sours and White Russians. Remember, if you’re playing for money, pitch in for the groom’s share.

Sports

With tasty wings, beer by the pitcher, and big screen TVs, sports bars are practically designed with male bonding in mind. And what better way to solidify your friendship than by sharing in the excitement of cheering on a favorite sports team? Head down to your favorite local haunt and take in the big game for a cheap night out with built-in entertainment.

Paintball or Laser Tag

Looking for a game day that’s a little more physical? Don your war paint and head to your local paintball range or laser tag facility for an action-filled time that will be sure to get your heart pumping. Take advantage of group rates and Groupons to save a few dollars. You can spend your savings on some celebratory brews at the pub afterward.

July 6, 2016

What to Wear to a Formal Fall Wedding on a Shoestring Budget

Fall wedding invites are starting to hit mailboxes and if you’re one of the lucky ones who made the A-list, it’s time to start shopping for fall wedding outfits. However, we’ve noticed that unless otherwise noted, fall wedding guest attire tends to be on the formal side. Since plummeting temps make way for glamorous dress styles, expect a “black tie” notation on those invites. But this doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan just to be a good-looking guest. Here are four easy tips on how to shop for fall wedding attire that will save you big bucks or make the most of a big purchase while stacking up Cash Back at Ebates.

1. Shop Fast Fashion Brands

Some of your go-to brands for everyday looks can really come through with luxe-looking fall cocktail dresses. Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe have a fabulous selection of fall evening dresses in both straight and plus sizes. And if you want to take the crash course What To Wear to a Fall Wedding 101, the answer is always a cape dress like this amazing one in cobalt. It’s dramatic without getting too flashy or fussy.

2. Get it Slightly Loved

Remember that it doesn’t have to be brand new in order to be a show-stopper. With Rent The Runway, you can even rock a designer look often for $100 or less. This Badgley Mischka gown in siren red is a perfect example. ThredUp is also a fantastic option for designer lovers with fall evening dresses and more for up to $90 off!

3. Shop Investment Pieces

So you’ve got a taste for high end. Don’t worry. It’s not a crime! Just keep in mind that while you are shopping for a special occasion, it doesn’t have to be the only occasion your purchase will ever see. When shopping from tried-and-true luxury stores like Bloomingdale’s, go for timeless cuts and fabrics. Find something that fits your body like a glove, makes you feel unstoppable and will not fall prey to passing trends. Avoid those prints! Solids can fit more easily into any soirée. This lace dress from Kiyonna is one of our favorite fall evening dresses and will be sure to give you plenty of mileage.

3. Dress Up Your Own Basics

Every woman should own a little black dress. If you already have one, now is the perfect time to break it out and score some stunning statement accessories to make it wedding worthy. A jeweled bib necklace like this masterpiece from BaubleBar is an instant upgrade for any neckline. You can also shop amazing, budget-friendly jewelry pieces at Charming Charlie. Find the perfect pair of shoes and a clutch, then you’re all set to dance the night away knowing everyone thinks you spent a fortune on your look. Secrets are fun, aren’t they?

June 30, 2016

Bridal Shower Gift Ideas For Every Type of Bride

Wedding season is in full swing and the odds are good that you are going to be invited to at least one bridal shower this summer. Every relationship is unique, as is every bride, and this can make finding the perfect bridal shower gifts for her a challenge. That’s why we’ve created this guide to shopping for unique bridal shower gifts that covers the spread by focusing on five essential types of bride. So, prepare yourself with a bridal gifts promo code from Ebates and follow our guide to where to shop for gifts for the bride. We will help you find the perfect bridal shower gift ideas for her, and when you shop with Ebates you can earn Cash Back to spend on a little something for yourself, too!

Spafinder Wellness 365

Why She Will Love It:

She’s the one everyone’s always trying to keep up with. Her wedding binder has no post-its, no bent corners, no hasty scribbles and no tear stains. She’s never frantic, never unreasonable, never irrational and she never yells. Mrs. Jones is the bride every bride secretly thinks she could be if she could only relax and recharge. So if there is a little bit of Mrs. Jones in a stressed-out bride that is just yearning to come out, we recommend Spafinder Wellness 365, the most comprehensive resource for wellness-related products, services and insight. A Spafinder Wellness 365 Gift Card can be redeemed at participating spa and wellness locations all over the country as well as stores online. She can have access to facials, yoga, massages and more, anywhere she likes.

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Cameta Camera

Why She Will Love It:

She’s perfect. He’s perfect. In fact, everything is perfect. Her groom may not ride a white horse, wear silver armor or be set to inherit a kingdom, but he’s her prince. Just as long as at the end of the day they get hitched, this bride welcomes any adventure her wedding might bring. Neither rain nor cancelled caterer will upset Mrs. Charming’s happy ending and she will take it all in stride. For her, we recommend shopping at Cameta Camera for the best cameras, accessories, cases and more for bridal shower gift ideas that won’t break the bank. With a digital camera she can capture every moment and every smile on her big day in high quality and save it forever. Browse their wide selection with a photography promo code from Ebates for amazing savings.

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Etsy

Why She Will Love It:

She has a lot of feelings and it’s a guarantee that she will cry during her vows. She has a heart as big as the neighborhood and can’t wait to put on a cardigan and change into flats after the first dance. Mrs. Rogers will have craft activities at her bridal shower and she’ll make cookies shaped like little wedding cakes. For this bride, we recommend shopping at Etsy, the largest collection of unique, vintage and handmade goods online. Etsy has it all, from keepsake jewelry and handmade bridal accessories to personalized gifts like handkerchiefs and stationary, direct from the maker. Plus when you shop for unique bridal shower gifts with an Etsy promo code from Ebates, you can save with every purchase.

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Rent the Runway

Why She Will Love It:

She may not have a license to kill, but Mrs. Bond is fearless, fierce, fashionable and never too far from a martini. This bride loves a good challenge and she’s always ready for anything. For her, we recommend shopping for a membership at Rent the Runway, the “Netflix model for Haute Couture,” that will bring her the latest and greatest clothing and accessories. With flexible delivery and return dates, pre-paid return envelopes and no-cost dry cleaning, Rent the Runway will allow her access to a never-ending closet of designer and couture fashions at a fraction of the cost. She can rent evening gowns, cocktail dresses, even sunglasses, bags and jewelry at Rent the Runway. In fact, there’s even a huge bridal and wedding apparel collection!

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The Grommet

Why She Will Love It:

She’s a rebel, she’s tough and she doesn’t take herself too seriously. She likes to make a statement, and she just might even have her own catchphrase. This free-spirited bride deserves a gift as uncommon as she is. For her, we recommend shopping at The Grommet, a collection of products with purpose, invented by people with stories. The Grommet features incredible gifts for her, created by individual makers and selected because each item is something thoughtful, inspiring, innovative or useful. You can earn Cash Back at Ebates when you buy at The Grommet on top of already deep discounts on travel gear, garden tools, bath products, home décor and kitchenware. The Grommet is a great source for innovative and unique gifts for your one-of-a-kind bride.

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May 20, 2016

9 Summer Wedding Tips to Help You Keep Your Cool

Summer is one of the most popular wedding seasons of the year. However, summer weddings can be a tad uncomfortable for guests as well as the bride and groom. Here are some tips on what you need to beat the heat and say “I do” to some Cash Back at Ebates while you’re at it. Preparing for your dream summer wedding will be easier than you think.

1. Play it Cool

Having an outdoor summer wedding? Skip the sweltering heat and keep guests comfortable with gear to cool them off. Place handheld fans on their seats or in baskets at the entrance to your venue for guests to grab. Umbrellas and tents are a great option to create shade and stay protected from the harsh sunlight. Large portable fans make keeping your outdoor tent space cool as a breeze. Fabric seat covers or cushions will keep guests from burning themselves on hot rental chairs. If possible, opt for a location that offers both and indoor and outdoor space in order to provide guests an air-conditioned sanctuary when they want to beat the heat.

2. Warm-Weather Worthy Food & Drinks

Hot, greasy food and scorching weather just don’t pair well together. Choose light entrees, cool salads and sweet seasonal fruits to keep guests feeling festive and ready to celebrate. Visit FruitBouquets.com for Cash Back at Ebates on fruit baskets and bouquets sure to make a scrumptious statement on your buffet or snack table. Be sure to keep appetizers and food over ice or on chilled platters so they don’t spoil. Add ice water pitchers to guests’ tables to keep them hydrated and cool, too. Dress up your drinks with fresh slices of fruit or berries for a stylish way to sip and serve frozen adult beverages for the perfect refreshments. Don’t forget to keep the little ones hydrated by keeping ice buckets full of water bottles and no sugar-added juices within their reach. Check Overstock.com or Crate and Barrel for great beverage dispensers, drinkware and more. When it comes to dessert, traditional wedding cakes are great, but unique ice creams, gelato or shaved ice will keep guests cooled down and delighted.

3. Summery Styles

Don’t get weighed down by a bulky dress or tux. Opt for light and breathable fabrics for summer-appropriate style, especially for outdoor ceremonies. Encourage guests to sport flowy summer wedding dresses or airy shirts, shorts or pants for maximum comfort. Open-toed shoes or comfortable sandals will keep you from overheating, too. Visit Shoes.com and save on tons of summer-friendly styles with Cash Back at Ebates and a money-saving promo code.

4. Hot Weather Hair & Makeup

Hair and humidity are mortal enemies. Prep your locks with a smoothing serum or humidity protector before walking down the aisle on a sticky day. If you have medium to long hair, think about skipping the flowing ‘do for a more summer-friendly style off your neck and shoulders. Stay cool with a chic bun, pony or chignon and don’t forget to set your look with a humidity-fighting spray. When it comes to makeup, the drippy, sweaty style that comes with summer just isn’t flattering. Be sure to visit ULTA Beauty to find your perfect primers, powders and matte setting sprays to make your look last all day, shine-free. Score amazing wedding makeup deals and save with an ULTA Beauty promo code!

5. Flower Power

Wilting, brown flowers aren’t what you signed up for on your wedding day. If you want to add pretty petals to match your summer wedding colors, be sure to choose heat-resistant blooms that thrive in that sizzling summer weather. Succulents and vines are beautiful options that won’t wither in the great outdoors. Talk to your florist or check out FTD Flowers and save with a promo code while earning Cash Back at Ebates on beautiful blooms. Don’t forget to keep summer wedding corsages and boutonnieres in a cool place until you’re ready to go.

6. Don’t Bug Out

The hot summer sun means bugs come out to play. Skip the mosquito bites and gnats by providing plenty of bug spray to combat those annoying insects. Set up a warm-weather refueling station complete with bug spray, cold water bottles, sunscreen and ice water spray bottles to keep guests comfortable. Light citronella candles around your ceremony for a little glow that’ll keep you protected, too. Toss them in a stylish lantern and you’re golden!

7. Favor Faves

Skip the melty chocolates and other ooey-gooey sweets and opt for mini summer wedding care packages to keep your guests comfortable. Parasols, personalized fans and sunglasses make great additions to your summer wedding favors. Mini bubble bottles are the perfect outdoor wedding favors for kids, just make sure they’ve got their UV protection on first, of course.

8. It’s All Fun & Games

Perfect summer days are ideal for outdoor play! If the temps don’t skyrocket, keep guests having fun outside with entertaining summer wedding ideas like bocce ball, horseshoe and other fun lawn games.

Did you tie the knot during the summer season? Comment below and share your favorite wedding ideas for summer!